Blow up Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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blow up
[bləʊ ʌp ]
Definitions
explosion
To explode or destroy something by detonating an explosive. It can refer to both intentional and accidental explosions.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| blow up |
Used for causing something to burst violently and suddenly, often used in both a literal sense (like an explosion) and a figurative sense (such as to lose one's temper).
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| explode |
Refers to something bursting with a sudden and violent release of energy. It is often used literally for physical explosions but can also describe sudden, intense emotional reactions.
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| detonate |
Specifically used for setting off an explosive device. It is commonly used in military, scientific, and technical contexts.
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| destroy |
A general term for causing something to be ruined or to cease to exist. It can be used for both physical and non-physical contexts.
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Examples of usage
- The terrorists tried to blow up the bridge with a bomb.
- The gas leak caused the house to blow up unexpectedly.
inflate
To fill something, such as a balloon, with air or gas until it becomes larger and rounder.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| blow up |
To describe a situation when something explodes or gets very angry suddenly. This can have a negative connotation when referring to anger.
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| inflate |
To describe filling something with air or gas, often used with physical objects like balloons or tires. Can also be used metaphorically for increasing numbers or prices.
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| pump up |
To describe filling something with air or enthusiasm, often used in a casual or informal context.
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| expand |
To describe something growing larger in size, volume, or scope over time. Usually used in a formal or neutral context.
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Examples of usage
- She asked her brother to blow up the balloons for the party.
- He used a pump to blow up the inflatable mattress.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Pop Culture
- In movies, 'blow up' often refers to dramatic scenes involving explosions, like in action films where buildings or vehicles are blown up for effect.
- The phrase is also popular in video games, where characters or objects may 'blow up' when hit or at certain levels.
Science
- In chemistry, the phrase can describe a rapid release of gas from a reaction that may lead to explosions, such as mixing certain chemicals.
- Physics defines blow-up as a sudden increase in pressure that can lead to explosive decompression in various materials.
Psychology
- Figuratively, 'blowing up' can describe a sudden emotional outburst, such as anger, where someone might 'blow up' at a situation.
- Understanding why people 'blow up' emotionally can help in managing stress and conflict resolution.
Literature
- The phrase can be found in various literary works to describe events that escalate uncontrollably, serving as a metaphor for rising tension.
- Famous authors use 'blow up' to illustrate climaxes in their plots where everything seems to come to a head.
Origin of 'blow up'
Main points about word origin
- The phrase 'blow up' comes from the combination of 'blow' meaning to force air and 'up' suggesting an increase in size or intensity.
- It entered the English language in the late 19th century, initially used to describe explosions and then broadened to include other meanings.
The term 'blow up' originated in the mid-17th century, with 'blow' meaning to puff or emit a current of air and 'up' indicating an increase in size or intensity. Over time, the phrase evolved to encompass both explosive destruction and inflation, reflecting the dual meanings it carries today.